Learn Slovak and More Podcast

Today's episode is about my three favorite palaces in Bratislava. In the Slovak lesson, you will learn about a traditional Slovak idiom and learn a few words from my short story. You will also learn how to say “Everything will pass away” in Slovak. At the end of this episode, you can find my short story.

Episode notes

In today's episode, I’m talking about my three favorite palaces in Bratislava. In the Slovak lesson, you will find out about a traditional Slovak idiom and learn a few words from my short story. You will also learn how to say “Everything will pass away” in Slovak. At the end of this episode, you can find my short story.

Slovak lesson

1.    letná slávnosť (summer celebration / festival)

2.    výnimočný hosť (exceptional guest)

3.    majestátna vládkyňa (majestic ruler)

4.    mocná cisárovná (powerful empress)

5.    uhorská kráľovná (Hungarian queen)

6.    vzácna hostka (precious guest)

7.    nádherný palác (magnificent palace)

8.    letné sídlo (summer residence)

9.    dávna sláva (ancient glory)

10. svetská sláva (worldly glory)

11. Všetko pominie. (Everything will pass away.)

12. Svetská sláva – poľná tráva. (Worldly glory - field grass)

Príbeh: Mária Terézia v Grassalkovičovom paláci
Grassalkovičov palác dnes večer žiari svetlom. Koná sa tu veľká letná slávnosť.  Záhrady zapĺňajú elegantní hostia, hudobníci hrajú a páry tancujú. Gróf Anton Grassalkovič dohliada na každý detail. Veľkolepé oslavy miluje a dnešný večer je zo všetkých najdôležitejší. Dnes večer totiž očakáva výnimočného hosťa.

Zrazu sa davom roznesie šepot: prichádza jeho výnimočný hosť – majestátna vládkyňa Mária Terézia. Mocná cisárovná a uhorská kráľovná vystúpi z koča a vstúpi do paláca. Všetci sa za ňou otáčajú. Sluhovia sa ponáhľajú v ústrety, hudobníci hrajú s väčším entusiazmom. A gróf Grassalkovič hrdo víta svoju vzácnu hostku.

Vo vnútri sa svetlo sviečok odráža od pozlátených dekorácií. Hudba napĺňa celý palác, víno sa leje a rozhovory neutíchajú. Grassalkovičov palác je dnes večer centrom aristokratického života v Prešporku. Mária Terézia si prezerá nádherný palác i záhrady. Na jediný večer sa toto elegantné letné sídlo stáva jej javiskom — a všetci prítomní vedia, že sú svedkami niečoho výnimočného.

A dnes, o viac ako 250 rokov neskôr, palác stále stojí. Hudba stíchla, sviečky zhasli a koče dávno zmizli. Keď však dnes večer stojíte pred Grassalkovičovým palácom a na chvíľu zatvoríte oči, takmer začujete hudbu a dokážete si predstaviť jeho dávnu slávu.

Timestamps

00:33 Introducrion to the episode

02:15 About the Presidential Palace

04:29 Fun fact 1

04:52 Fun fact 2

14:49 Slovak lesson vocabulary

21:18 Story in Slovak

23:37 Translation of the story into English

25:45 Final thoughts

If you have any questions, send it to my email [email protected]. Check my  Instagram https://www.instagram.com/bozenasslovak/ where I am posting the pictures of what I am talking about on my podcast. Also, check my website  https://www.bozenasslovak.com

© All copywrites reserved to Bozena Ondova Hilko LLC

Today's episode is about the true impact of socialist-era military service on men in Czechoslovakia. In the Slovak lesson, you will learn the difference between Slovak verbs 'ochutnať' and 'ochutnávať'. You’ll also learn how to say “Taste it but be careful.“ in Slovak. At the end of this episode, you can find my short story about the novel Tankový prapor (The Tank Battalion) by Josef Škvorecký.

Episode notes

In today's episode, I’m talking about the true impact of socialist-era military service on men in Czechoslovakia. In the Slovak lesson, you will learn the difference between Slovak verbs ochutnať and ochutnávať. You’ll also learn how to say “Taste it but be careful.“ in Slovak. At the end of this episode, you can find my short story about the novel Tankový prapor (The Tank Battalion) by Josef Škvorecký.

Slovak lesson

Chceš ochutnať toto víno? (Do you want to taste this wine? — maybe just a sip to try it.)

Áno, ochutnám ho. (Yes, I will taste it.)

Práve ochutnávame miestne syry. (We are tasting/sampling local cheeses right now.)

Future: Zajtra budeme ochutnávať vína. (Tomorrow we will be doing a wine tasting.)

Peter dnes ochutnáva slovenské syry. (Peter is tasting Slovak cheeses today.) 

Peter ešte nikdy neochutnal slovenskú bryndzu, ale zajtra ju ochutná. (Peter has never tasted Slovak sheep cheese before, but tomorrow he will give it a try.)

Bude Peter ochutnávať aj slovenské vína? (Will Peter also tastes Slovak wines?)

Nemyslím, včera ochutnal burčiak a dnes ho bolí hlava. (I don't think so, he tasted a burčiak yesterday and today he has a headache.)

Ochutnajte to! (Taste it!)

Ochutnajte to, ale buďte opatrní. (Taste it but be careful.)

Tankový prapor – Josef Škvorecký

Ak vás zaujíma, ako vyzerala povinná vojenská služba v socialistickom Československu, kniha Tankový prapor od Josefa Škvoreckého je veľmi zaujímavým pohľadom do života mladých vojakov.

Škvorecký knihu napísal v roku 1954, keď sám mal čerstvú skúsenosť s vojenskou službou. V Československu však nemohla oficiálne vyjsť. Prvýkrát bola vydaná v Toronte, kde žil Škvorecký po emigrácii. Doma v Československu sa kniha mohla slobodne objaviť až po páde komunistického režimu.

Príbeh sa odohráva v päťdesiatych rokoch v československej armáde. Hlavnou postavou je vojak Danny Smiřický. Danny a jeho spolubojovníci sa snažia prežiť vojenskú službu, nezmyselné rozkazy, politické školenia, šikanu a často absurdné správanie nadriadených.

Kniha však nie je klasickým vojnovým príbehom o hrdinských bitkách. Naopak, Škvorecký ukazuje každodennú realitu obyčajných vojakov – nudu, frustráciu, vulgarizmy, alkohol, kamarátstvo a čierny humor. Práve humor je jednou z najsilnejších zbraní vojakov proti systému, ktorý od nich očakáva poslušnosť a nadšenie.

Hlavnou myšlienkou Tankového praporu je preto nielen kritika armády, ale aj kritika komunistického systému a jeho absurdnej byrokracie. Škvorecký ukazuje, ako si ľudia v neslobodnom prostredí vytvárajú vlastný svet, v ktorom sa snažia zachovať si humor, dôstojnosť a trochu osobnej slobody.

A možno práve preto je Tankový prapor dodnes zaujímavý. Je to príbeh o vojne, na ktorej sa vlastne nebojuje – a o mladých mužoch, ktorí sa namiesto nepriateľa snažia prežiť predovšetkým samotný systém.

TRANSLATION

The Tank Battalion – Josef Škvorecký

If you are interested in what compulsory military service was like in socialist Czechoslovakia, Josef Škvorecký’s The Tank Battalion (Tankový prapor) offers a fascinating look into the lives of young soldiers.

Škvorecký wrote the book in 1954, when his own experience with military service was still fresh. However, it could not be officially published in Czechoslovakia. It was first published in Toronto, after Škvorecký had emigrated there. The book could not be freely published in Czechoslovakia until after the fall of the communist regime.

The story takes place in the Czechoslovak army during the nineteen-fifties. The main character is soldier Danny Smiřický. Danny and his fellow soldiers try to survive military service, ridiculous orders, political training, hazing, and the often absurd behavior of their superiors.

But this is not a traditional war story about heroic battles. Instead, Škvorecký shows the everyday reality of ordinary soldiers—boredom, frustration, bad language, alcohol, friendship, and dark humor. Humor becomes one of the soldiers’ strongest weapons against a system that expects obedience and enthusiasm from them.

The main idea of The Tank Battalion is therefore not simply criticism of the army, but also criticism of the communist system and its absurd bureaucracy. Škvorecký shows how people living without freedom create their own world, where they try to preserve their humor, dignity, and a little personal freedom.

And perhaps that is why The Tank Battalion is still interesting today. It is a story about a war in which nobody is actually fighting—and about young men who are trying to survive not so much an enemy as the system itself.

Timestamps

00:33 Introduction to the episode

02:23 About the impact of mandatory military service in Czechoslovakia

10:56 Slovak lesson

12:12 Practice some sentences

14:45 Phrase for today

17:15 Fun fact 1

17:30 Fun fact 2

17:50 Tankový prapor by Josef Škvorecký in Slovak

20:19 Tank battalion by Josef Škvorecký in English

22:43 Final thoughts

If you have any questions, send it to my email [email protected]. Check my  Instagram https://www.instagram.com/bozenasslovak/ where I am posting the pictures of what I am talking about on my podcast. Also, check my website  https://www.bozenasslovak.com

© All copywrites reserved to Bozena Ondova Hilko LLC

Today's episode is about the military service in socialist Slovakia. In the Slovak lesson, you will learn how to say “Shut up and work!“ in Slovak. At the end of this episode, you can find a traditional folk song about going in the army. 

Episode notes

In today's episode, I’m talking about the military service in socialist Slovakia. In the Slovak lesson, you will learn how to say “Shut up and work!“ in Slovak. At the end of this episode, you can find a traditional folk song about going in the army.

Slovak lesson

1. vojenská služba (military service) 

2. povolávací rozkaz (draft order)

3. mladíci (young men)

4. vstať, vstávať (to get up)

5. cvičiť (to exercise)

6. pochodovať (to march)

7. nezmyselné úlohy (meaningless tasks)

8. ťažkosti (difficulties)

9. skúsenosť (experience)

10. Drž hubu a makaj! (Shut up and work!)

Slovak traditional song

"Keď mi prišla karta narukovať"

 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KKrRa_9EUnQ  

Keď mi prišla karta narukovať,
 dal som si muziku došikovať,
 [:páni muzikanti, zahrajte mi čardáš,
 prvého októbra rukovať mám.:]
 
 A oni mi pekne začali hrať,
 mne začali z očí slzy padať,
 [:za mnou nezaplače otec ani matka,
 za mnou budú plakať tri dievčatka.:]
 
 Jedna bude plakať, mal som ju rád,
 druhá bude plakať, bol som jej brat
 [:a tá tretia plače, šej, haj, lebo musí,
 lebo tá odo mňa prsteň nosí.:]
 
 Prsteň, prsteň, prsteň, s modrým očkom,
 čo mi dala milá pod oblôčkom,
 [:pod oblôčkom dala, horko zaplakala,
 bodaj by ťa nikdy nespoznala.:]

TRANSLATION:

When I got a draft notice,

I summoned the music band:

[:Gentlemen musicians, play a čardáš to me,

On the first of October I have to go to the army.:]

And they started to play nicely to me,

Tears started falling from my eyes

[:Neither my father nor mother will cry for me,

Three girls will cry for me.:]

One will cry, I liked her

The second one will cry, I was her brother;

[:And that third one is crying because she has to,

Because she's been wearing a ring from me.:]

A ring, a ring, a ring, with a blue eye,

Which my dear gave me under a window,

[:She gave it under the window, she cried bitterly,

I wish I would never have known you.:]

Timestamps

00:34 Introduction to the lesson

02:11 About the military service in Czechoslovakia

18:02 Slovak lesson

20:11 Example sentences

20:45 Vocabulary

26:45 Slovak traditional folk song

27:49 Translation of the song into English

29:09 Final thoughts

If you have any questions, send it to my email [email protected]. Check my  Instagram https://www.instagram.com/bozenasslovak/ where I am posting the pictures of what I am talking about on my podcast. Also, check my website  https://www.bozenasslovak.com

© All copywrites reserved to Bozena Ondova Hilko LLC

Today's episode is about World Vegetarian Day in Slovakia. In the Slovak lesson, you will learn about the difference between two Slovak verbs "vyskúšam" and "skúsim". You will also learn how to ask “I'll try something new. “ in Slovak. At the end of this episode, you can find my short dialogue between two friends talking about vegetarian day.

Episode notes

In today's episode, I’m talking about World Vegetarian Day in Slovakia. In the Slovak lesson, you will learn about the difference between two Slovak verbs "vyskúšam" and "skúsim". You will also learn how to ask “I'll try something new. “ in Slovak. At the end of this episode, you can find my short dialogue between two friends talking about vegetarian day.

Slovak lesson

1.    vegetarián / vegetariánka (vegetarian)

2.    zeleninové rizoto (vegetable risotto)

3.    cestoviny s hubami (pasta with mushrooms)

4.    zemiakové placky (potato pancakes)

5.    fazuľova polievka (bean soup)

6.    halušky (dumplings, spaetzles, gnocchi)

7.    bez slaniny (without bacon)

8.    presvedčiť (convince)

9.    To je pecka! (That's awesome!) => Slang. “Pecka” literally means “pit” (from fruit), but it has come to mean “cool,” “awesome,” or “great.” It’s a favorite word among young people to express excitement or approval.

10. Skúsim niečo nové! (I'll try something new!)

DIALOGUE

Katka: Ahoj, Jana! Vieš, že zajtra je Svetový deň vegetariánov? (Hi, Jana! Do you know that tomorrow is World Vegetarian Day?)

Jana: Áno? To som nevedela. Ty si vegetariánka, však? (Really? I didn't know that. You are a vegetarian, right?)

Katka: Áno, som. Už niekoľko rokov. (Yes, I am. For several years now.)

Jana: To je pecka! (That’s awesome!) Čo si dáš na oslavu svojho dňa? (What will you eat / have to celebrate your day?)

Katka: Asi zeleninové rizoto alebo cestoviny s hubami. Sú veľmi chutné. (Probably vegetable risotto or pasta with mushrooms. They are very tasty.)

Jana: Ja mám rada mäso. Neviem, či by som mohla byť vegetariánka. (I like meat. I don't know if I would be a vegetarian.)

Katka: Nemusíš byť vegetariánka! Skús len nejaké vegetariánske jedlo. (You don't have to be a vegetarian! Just try one vegetarian meal.)

Jana: Napríklad čo? (Like what?)

Katka: Môžeš skúsiť zemiakové placky, fazuľovú polievku alebo bryndzové halušky bez slaniny. (You can try potato pancakes, bean soup, or bryndza halušky without bacon.)

Jana: Bryndzové halušky bez slaniny? To znie zaujímavo! (Bryndza halušky without bacon? That sounds interesting!)

Katka: Vidíš? Zajtra môžeme spolu zájsť do vegetariánskej reštaurácie. (See? Tomorrow we can go to a vegetarian restaurant together.)

Jana: Dobre, presvedčila si ma. Skúsim niečo nové! (Okay, you convinced me. I'll try something new!)

Katka: Super! Možno sa ti to bude páčiť. (Great! Maybe you'll like it.)

Timestamps

00:35 Introduction to the episode

02:21 About World Vegetarian Day in Slovakia

04:44 Fun fact 1

11:17 Fun fact 2

13:49 Slovak lesson

16:21 New wocabulary

20:55 Dialogue in Slovak

22:29 Dialogue with the English translation

25:15 Final thoughts

If you have any questions, send it to my email [email protected]. Check my  Instagram https://www.instagram.com/bozenasslovak/ where I am posting the pictures of what I am talking about on my podcast. Also, check my website  https://www.bozenasslovak.com

© All copywrites reserved to Bozena Ondova Hilko LLC

Today's episode is about medieval harvest festival in Bratislava castle. In the Slovak lesson, you will learn about the difference between two Slovak verbs "ochutnať" and "vyskúšať". You will also learn how to ask “Can I try on this coat?“ and “What should I see?” in Slovak. At the end of this episode, you can find my itinerary for two days in Bratislava during the harvest celebration.

Episode notes

In today's episode, I’m talking about medieval harvest festival in Bratislava castle. In the Slovak lesson, you will learn about the difference between two Slovak verbs "ochutnať" and "vyskúšať". You will also learn how to ask “Can I try on this coat?“ and “What should I see?” in Slovak. At the end of this episode, you can find my itinerary for two days in Bratislava during the harvest celebration. 

Slovak lesson

 Ochutnať (to taste / to try / to sample food or drink)

1.    Ochutnaj tento koláč, je výborný! (Taste / try this cake, it’s delicious!)

2.    Chcem ochutnať tradičné slovenské jedlo. (I want to taste / try traditional Slovak food.)

3.    Ešte som neochutnala toto víno. (I haven't tasted / tried this wine yet.)

Vyskúšať (to try out / test / try on)

1.    Musím si vyskúšať tieto topánky. (I have to try on these shoes.)

2.    Chcem vyskúšať nový recept. (I want to try out a new recipe.) You use vyskúšať for the process of cooking the recipe, but use ochutnať for tasting the final result!

3.    Mali by sme vyskúšať tento nový softvér. (We should test / try out this new software.)

Phrases for today:

1.    Môžem vyskúšať tento kabát? (Can I try on this coat?)

2.    Čo by som mal / mala vidieť? (What should I see?)

Itinerár:

DEŇ 1: Sobota 26. septembra 2026: Ponorte sa do stredovekej žatvy

• 10:15 – 13:00 | Otvorenie festivalu a výstavy živej histórie

Príďte na hlavné nádvorie Bratislavského hradu hneď po otvorení brán, aby ste predbehli poludňajšie davy.

Strávte ráno prehliadkou stánkov pod holým nebom. Sledujte majstrov kováčov, ako odlievajú ozdobné cínové predmety, prezrite si hrnčiarske kruhy poháňané nohami, ktoré tvarujú hlinené džbány, a pozorujte pisárov, ktorí predvádzajú kaligrafiu a ilumináciu rukopisov.

• 13:00 – 14:30 | Obed na Hradnom vrchu

Navštívte reštauráciu Parlament, ktorá sa nachádza priamo na Hradnom vrchu (Námestie Alexandra Dubčeka 1). Vychutnajte si autentickú a výdatnú slovenskú kuchyňu spolu s úžasným výhľadom na Dunaj. Očakávajte ceny okolo 10 – 35 € na osobu.

• 14:30 – 16:30 | Sokoliarstvo, šerm a história hradu

Vráťte sa späť na nádvorie hradu a pozrite si ukážky šermiarov a sokoliarov.

Potom vstupte do budovy paláca a prehliadnite si Slovenské národné múzeum – Historické múzeum (otvorené do 18:00). Prejdite sa historickými národnými zbierkami a vylezte na Korunnú vežu.

• 16:30 – 18:00 | Lukostreľba, kolotoč, sladkosti z otvoreného ohňa, medovina

Popoludnie strávte na interaktívnej lukostreleckej stanici, kolotoči a prejdite sa barokovými záhradami.

Vyskúšajte tradičné oblátky čerstvo upečené na otvorenom ohni na zložitých historických železných lisoch a skombinujte ich s medovinou od miestnych malokarpatských vinárov.

• 18:30 | Večera

Zostúpte po hradných hradbách do útulnej reštaurácie Modrá Hviezda (Beblavého 14) v budove z 18. storočia priamo v tieni hradu. Jej stredoveká atmosféra a slovenské jedlá poskytujú dokonalý záver dňa s tematikou histórie.

DEŇ 2: Nedeľa 27. septembra 2026: Prehliadka historického Starého Mesta

• 10:00 – 12:00 | Prechádzka Korunovačnou cestou a historickým námestím

Začnite svoju rannú prechádzku Michalskou bránou, jedinou zachovanou bránou stredovekého opevnenia mesta.

Nasledujte kráľovské mosadzné koruny zapustené do dlažby na Hlavné námestie, kde uvidíte Starú radnicu, Maximiliánovu / Rolandovu fontánu a Napoleonského vojaka.

• 12:15 – 13:30 | Tradičný obed v Starom Meste

Posaďte sa na obed v Kolibe Kamzík - Michalská (Michalská 16), ktorá podáva klasické stredoeurópske jedlá za vynikajúcu cenu.

• 13:45 – 15:30 | Dóm svätého Martina a prechádzka po nábreží

Prejdite sa do Dómu svätého Martina, gotického korunovačného kostola uhorských kráľov. Prezrite si jeho krásny interiér a potom si vychutnajte tichú 45-minútovú prechádzku po nábreží Dunaja.

• 15:30 – 17:30 | Modrý kostol a prestávka v kaviarni

Zamierte mierne na východ od centra starého mesta a navštívte Kostol sv. Alžbety (známy ako Modrý kostol), ktorý je známy svojou secesnou architektúrou. Oddýchnite si pri káve a kúsku tradičného pečiva v neďalekej miestnej kaviarni.

• 18:00 | Rozlúčková večera

Ukončite svoj víkend v Slovak Pube na Obchodnej ulici. Táto pulzujúca pamiatka je ideálna na neformálny posledný večer a podáva aj známe bryndzové halušky za dostupné ceny.

TRANSLATION

Here is your complete, well-paced weekend itinerary for visiting the Stredoveké dožinky na Bratislavskom hrade on September 26–27, 2026. This plan optimizes your time between the medieval harvest festival on Castle Hill and the absolute historic essentials of Bratislava's Old Town.

DAY 1: Saturday, September 26, 2026: Immersed in Medieval Harvest

·       10:15 AM – 1:00 PM | Festival Opening & Living History Expositions

Arrive at the main courtyard of Bratislava Castle just after gates open to beat the midday crowds.

Spend the morning browsing the open-air stalls. Watch master blacksmiths cast decorative pewter [tin] objects, see foot-powered pottery wheels shaping clay jugs, and watch scribes demonstrate calligraphy and manuscript illumination.

·       1:00 PM – 2:30 PM | Lunch on Castle Hill

Visit the Restaurant Parliament located right on Castle Hill (Námestie Alexandra Dubčeka 1). Enjoy authentic, hearty Slovakian cuisine along with a stunning view of the Danube River. Expect prices around €10–€35 per person.

·       2:30 PM – 4:30 PM | Falconry, Fencing, and Castle History

Return to the castle courtyard for the afternoon entertainment block. Watch demonstrations of fencers and falconers.

Then enter the palace building and explore the Slovak National Museum – Historical Museum (open until 18:00). Stroll through the historical national collections and climb the Crown Tower.

·       4:30 PM – 6:00 PM | Archery, Carousel, and Open-Fire Sweets

Spend the afternoon at the interactive archery station, carousel, and stroll through the Baroque gardens.

Try traditional wafers freshly baked over an open fire on intricate historic iron presses, and pair them with honeyed mead from local MaloCarpathian winemakers.

·       6:30 PM | Evening Dinner

Descend the castle walls to Modrá Hviezda / Blue Star restaurant in an 18th-century building right in the shadow of the castle. Its medieval atmosphere and premium Slovak dishes provide the perfect conclusion to a history-themed day.

DAY 2: Sunday, September 27, 2026: Historic Old Town Exploration

·       10:00 AM – 12:00 PM | Coronation Route Walk & Historic Squares

Begin your morning walking through Michael's Gate (Michalská brána), the only surviving gate of the city's medieval fortifications.

Follow the royal brass crowns embedded in the pavement to Hlavné Námestie (Main Square) to see the Old Town Hall, Maximilián / Roland Fountain, and Napoleonic soldier. 

·       12:15 PM – 1:30 PM | Traditional Old Town Lunch

Sit down for lunch at Koliba Kamzík - Michalská (Michalská 16), which serves classic central European food at excellent value.

·       1:45 PM – 3:30 PM | St. Martin's Cathedral & Riverfront Stroll

Walk to St. Martin's Cathedral, the Gothic coronation church of Hungarian kings. View its beautiful interior before enjoying a quiet, 45-minute stroll along the Danube riverfront.

·       3:30 PM – 5:30 PM | The Blue Church & Café Break

Head slightly east of the core old town to visit the Church of St. Elizabeth (known as the Blue Church), it’s celebrated for its Art Nouveau architecture. Relax with a coffee and a slice of traditional pastry at a nearby local café to rest your feet.

·       6:00 PM | Farewell Dinner

Conclude your weekend at Slovak Pub on Obchodná street. This vibrant landmark is ideal for a casual last night and also serves the famous bryndzové halušky at affordable prices.

Timestamps

00:34 Introduction to the episode

02:25 About medieval harvest festival in Bratislava castle

11:25 Slovak lesson

14:11 Phrases for today

15:54 Itinerary for visiting medieval harvest festival and Old town in  Bratislava

20:41 Translation of the itinerary

25:03 Final thoughts

If you have any questions, send it to my email [email protected]. Check my  Instagram https://www.instagram.com/bozenasslovak/ where I am posting the pictures of what I am talking about on my podcast. Also, check my website  https://www.bozenasslovak.com

© All copywrites reserved to Bozena Ondova Hilko LLC

Today, I’m talking about grape harvest festivals near Bratislava and the Malocarpathian wine route in Slovakia. In the Slovak lesson, you will learn a few new words from my article. You will also learn how to ask “Can I taste some wines?“ in Slovak. At the end of this episode, you can find my short article about the wine route in western Slovakia.

Episode notes

In today's episode, I’m talking about grape harvest festivals near Bratislava and the Malocarpathian wine route in Slovakia. In the Slovak lesson, you will learn a few new words from my article. You will also learn how to ask “Can I taste some wines?“ in Slovak. At the end of this episode, you can find my short article about the wine route in western Slovakia.

Slovak lesson

1.    spoznať (to get to know)

2.    vínna cesta (wine route)

3.    preskúmať (to explore)

4.    vinobranie (wine harvest)

5.    otvorené pivnice (open cellars)

6.    miestne jedlo (local food)

7.    prípitok (toast)

8.    ochutnávka vín (wine tasting)

9.    ochutnať (to taste / to try food or drink)

10. Môžem ochutnať nejaké vína? (Can I taste some wines?)

Summary:

Je tu jeseň a s ňou obdobie na preskúmanie slovenského vinárskeho kraja. Len kúsok od Bratislavy ožíva Malokarpatská vínna cesta vinobraním, otvorenými pivnicami, miestnym jedlom, hudbou a množstvom prípitkov na zdravie!

Začnite v Rači, ktorá má dlhú vinársku tradíciu, a potom pokračujte do Pezinka, Modry a Svätého Jura. Počas septembra a októbra otvárajú miestni vinári svoje pivnice a ponúkajú návštevníkom ochutnávky slovenských vín, najmä sviežich bielych vín, ako sú Rizling vlašský a Veltlínske zelené, ale aj Frankovka modrá či slovenská odroda Devín.

Nemusíte byť odborníkom na víno. Stačí zvedavosť, dobrá chuť a  znalosť slovenského slovíčka: Na zdravie!

Translation:

Autumn is here and with it the time to explore Slovakia’s wine region. Just a short distance from Bratislava, the Malocarpathian Wine Route comes alive with vintages, open cellars, local food, music and plenty of toasts to your health!

Start in Rača, which has a long winemaking tradition, and then continue to Pezinok, Modra and Svätý Jur. During September and October, local winemakers open their cellars and offer visitors tastings of Slovak wines, especially crisp whites such as Riesling Wlašský and Grüner Veltliner, but also Frankovka Modrá or the Slovak variety Devín.

You don’t have to be a wine expert. All you need is curiosity, good taste and a knowledge of the Slovak phrase: Na zdravie! Meaning:Cheers!

Timestamps

00:33 Introduction to the episode

02:18 About wine harvest and wine routes

07:56 Fun fact 1

09:01 Fun fact 2

17:56 Slovak lesson

22:16 Summary in Slovak

24:47 Translation of the summary

24:47 Final thoughts

If you have any questions, send it to my email [email protected]. Check my  Instagram https://www.instagram.com/bozenasslovak/ where I am posting the pictures of what I am talking about on my podcast. Also, check my website  https://www.bozenasslovak.com

© All copywrites reserved to Bozena Ondova Hilko LLC

Today's episode is about after school activities in socialist Slovakia. In the Slovak lesson, you will learn a few sentence connectors so you can sound more sophisticated speaking in Slovak. You will also learn how to say “Come out!” and “I'm coming.” in Slovak.

Episode notes

In today's episode, I’m talking about after school activities in socialist Slovakia. In the Slovak lesson, you will learn a few sentence connectors so you can sound more sophisticated. You will also learn how to say “Come out!” and “I'm coming.” in Slovak.

Slovak lesson

1. Expressing Contrast & Contradiction

Instead of using ale (but), try these to show a nuanced counter-argument:

• Avšak – However / Yet E.g.: Tento plán má svoje výhody, avšak riziká sú vysoké. (This plan has its advantages, but the risks are high.)
• Napriek tomu – In spite of that / Nonetheless
• Na druhej strane – On the other hand
• Hoci / Hocičo – Although / Even though
• Zatiaľ čo – While / Whereas (great for direct comparisons)

2. Showing Cause & Result

Instead of lebo or pretože (because), use these to establish formal cause-and-effect:

• V dôsledku toho – As a result of this / Consequently
• Z tohto dôvodu – For this reason
• Tým pádom – Consequently / Thereby (slightly more spoken, but highly effective)
• Vzhľadom na – Given that / Considering (requires a noun phrase)
• Preto – Therefore

3. Adding Information & Structuring Arguments

Instead of just repeating a (and) or tiež (also), use these to build a structured point:

• Okrem toho – Furthermore / Besides that
• Navyše – Moreover / In addition
• V prvom rade – In the first place / First and foremost
• Čo sa týka... – As far as ... is concerned / Regarding...
• Zároveň – At the same time / Simultaneously

10 Slovak sentences:

1. Avšak (However)

• Tento víkend sme chceli ísť stanovať do Tatier, avšak predpoveď počasia nám úplne prekazila plány.
   (We wanted to go camping in the Tatras this weekend; however, the weather forecast completely ruined our plans.)

2. Napriek tomu (In spite of that / Nevertheless)

• Môj brat bol po celom dni v práci unavený, napriek tomu s nami išiel večer do kina.
   (My brother was tired after a whole day at work; nevertheless, he came to the cinema with us in the evening.)

3. Na druhej strane (On the other hand)

• Dovolenka pri mori je skvelý relax, na druhej strane ma však láka aj turistika na horách.
  (A vacation by the sea is a great way to relax; on the other hand, hiking in the mountains also tempts me in the summer.)

4. Hoci (Although)

• Hoci sme sa s kamarátmi zo strednej školy nevideli roky, hneď sme si mali čo povedať.
   (Although I hadn't seen my high school friends for years, we immediately had plenty to talk about.)

5. Zatiaľ čo (While / Whereas)

• Moja sestra miluje varenie nových receptov, zatiaľ čo ja radšej upečiem nejaký koláč.
   (My sister loves cooking new recipes, while I prefer to bake a cake.)

6. Okrem toho (Furthermore / Besides that)

• Kúpili sme rodičom lístky na concert a okrem toho sme im zarezervovali aj peknú večeru v reštaurácii.
   (We bought our parents concert tickets; furthermore, we also booked them a nice dinner at a restaurant.)

7. Navyše (Moreover / In addition)

• V nedeľu sme upiekli skvelý domáci chlieb, navyše nám starká priniesla čerstvý med zo záhrady.
   (On Sunday we baked a great homemade bread; moreover, grandma brought us fresh honey from the garden.)

8. V prvom rade (In the first place / First and foremost)

• Keď plánujeme rodinnú oslavu, musíme v prvom rade vybrať dátum, ktorý vyhovuje naozaj každému.
   (When planning a family celebration, we must first and foremost pick a date that truly suits everyone.)

9. Čo sa týka... (As far as ... is concerned)

• Čo sa týka mojich koníčkov, najviac si oddýchnem pri čítaní dobrej detektívky alebo pri behu v parku.
  (As far as my hobbies are concerned, I relax the most while reading a good detective novel or running in the park.)

10. Zároveň (At the same time)

• Výchova detí prináša veľa náročných momentov, no zároveň je to tá najkrajšia životná skúsenosť.
   (Raising children brings many challenging moments, but at the same time, it is the most beautiful life experience.)

11. Poď von! (Come out!)

12. Už idem. (I'm coming.)

Timestamps

00:33 Introduction to the episode

02:11 About after school activities in socialist Slovakia

12:14 Slovak lesson

13:41 Practice sentences

21:50 Phrases for today

22:29 Final thoughts

If you have any questions, send it to my email [email protected]. Check my  Instagram https://www.instagram.com/bozenasslovak/ where I am posting the pictures of what I am talking about on my podcast. Also, check my website  https://www.bozenasslovak.com

© All copywrites reserved to Bozena Ondova Hilko LLC

Today's episode is about schools in Slovakia (Czechoslovakia) during socialism. In the Slovak lesson, you will learn a few words from my short dialogue. You will also learn how to ask “How was it?“ in Slovak. At the end of this episode, you can find my short dialogue about going to school during socialism. 

Episode notes

In today's episode, I’m talking about schools in Slovakia during socialism. In the Slovak lesson, you will learn a few words from my short dialogue. You will also learn how to ask “How was it?“ in Slovak. At the end of this episode, you can find my short dialogue about going to school during socialism. 

Slovak lesson

1.    počítač / počítače (computer / computers)

2.    mobil / mobily (mobile phone / mobile phones)

3.    domáca úloha / domáce úlohy (homework)

4.    nahnevať sa (to get angry)

5.    predmet / predmety (subject / subjects)

6.    zemepis (geography)

7.    prírodopis (natural history)

8.    dvor, na dvore (yard, in the yard)

9.    uniforma (uniform)

10. pionierska šatka (pioneer scarf)

11. zažiť (to experience)

12. možnosť / možnosti (possibility, options)

13. Aké to bolo? (How was it?)

DIALOGUE:

Vnučka: Babi, aké to bolo, keď si chodila do školy? (Grandma, what was it like when you went to school?)

Babka: Úplne iné ako dnes. Nemali sme počítače ani mobily. Všetko sme písali rukou do zošitov. (Completely different from today. We didn't have computers or cell phones. We wrote everything by hand in notebooks.)

Vnučka: A mali ste domáce úlohy? (And did you have homework?)

Babka: Samozrejme! A keď ich niekto nemal, učiteľ sa veľmi nahneval. Disciplína bola dôležitá. (Of course! And if someone didn't have it, the teacher would get very angry. Discipline was important.)

Vnučka: Aké predmety si mala najradšej? (What subjects did you like the most?)

Babka: Mala som rada zemepis a prírodopis. Ale museli sme sa učiť aj ruštinu. Vtedy to bol povinný cudzí jazyk. (I liked geography and natural history. But we also had to learn Russian. Back then, it was a mandatory foreign language.)

Vnučka: A čo ste robili cez prestávky? (And what did you do during breaks?)

Babka: Rozprávali sme sa, hrali sa na dvore alebo sme si vymieňali servitky a známky. Bolo to jednoduché, ale veselé. (We talked, played in the yard, or exchanged napkins and stamps. It was simple, but fun.)

Vnučka: Je pravda, že ste museli nosiť uniformy? (Is it true that you had to wear uniforms?)

Babka: Áno. Boli sme Pionieri a na veľké slávnosti sme nosili modré uniformy a červené pionierske šatky. Vtedy to patrilo k škole. (Yes. We were Pioneers and we wore blue uniforms and red Pioneer scarves for big celebrations. Back then, it was part of school.)

Vnučka: Chcela by si ešte raz zažiť školu z detstva? (Would you like to experience the school of your childhood again?)

Babka: Ani nie. Rada si zaspomínam na kamarátov a dobrých učiteľov. Ale dnešné školy ponúkajú oveľa viac možností a som rada, že sa deti môžu slobodne učiť a cestovať. (Not at all. I like to remember my friends and good teachers. But today's schools offer many more options and I'm glad that children can learn and travel freely.)

Timestamps

00:34 Introduction to the episode

02:17 Schools during socialism

08:22 Fact

16:52 Slovak lesson

22:00 Slovak dialogue

23:57 Dialogue with the English translation

27:34 Final thoughts

If you have any questions, send it to my email [email protected]. Check my  Instagram https://www.instagram.com/bozenasslovak/ where I am posting the pictures of what I am talking about on my podcast. Also, check my website  https://www.bozenasslovak.com

© All copywrites reserved to Bozena Ondova Hilko LLC

Today's episode is about the Battle of Mohács and its significance. In the Slovak lesson, you will learn a few new words from a legend. You will also learn how to say “Be grateful“ in Slovak. At the end of this episode, you can find my version of the legend of Vysoka.

Episode notes

In today's episode, I’m talking about the Battle of Mohács and its significance. In the Slovak lesson, you will learn a few new words from a legend. You will also learn how to say “Be grateful“ in Slovak. At the end of this episode, you can find my version of the legend of Vysoka.

Slovak lesson

1. povesť (legend)

 2. zázrak (miracle)

 3. kňaz (priest)

4. sviatosť (sacrament)

 5. monštrancia (monstrance)

6. modliť sa (to pray)

7. modlitba (prayer)

 8. vďaka (gratitude / thanks)

9. vďačnosť (gratitude)

10. Buďte vďační (Be grateful)

Povesť “Zázrak vo Vysokej”

Niekde vo svete je svetadiel Európa. Niekde v tej Európe bola malá krajina dnes známa ako Slovensko. Na tom Slovensku, blízko Banskej Štiavnice, bola malá horská dedinka Vysoká. 

Jedného dňa, keď si dedinčania vykonávali svoju prácu, sa v neďalekom údolí ozval dupot koní a krik osmanských jazdcov. Hneď na to sa rozozvučal zvon na poplach a niekto skríkol: „Turci idú!“ Dedinčania vedeli, že nemajú šancu sa ubrániť. A tak všetci, aj starci, ženy a deti, v panike utekali hore strmým svahom. Dúfali, že v hustých dubových lesoch nájdu svoju záchranu.

Miestny kňaz, otec Matej, rýchlo vzal z oltára to najcennejšie, čo v dedine mali – zlatú monštanciu so sviatosťou oltárnou. Opatrne ju pritlačil k hrudi a rozbehol sa za ostatnými.

Turci však boli na koňoch a prví jazdci s vytasenými šabľami dorazili na okraj lesa rýchlejšie ako dedinčania. Útek bol na konci. Krik útočníkov silnel a zdalo sa, že osud dediny je spečatený.

V tom momente otec Matej vystúpil na vyvýšenú skalu. Zodvihol zlatú monštanciu vysoko nad hlavu, otočil sa tvárou k blížiacemu sa vojsku a začal sa nahlas modliť.

Zrazu z malej bielej hostie uprostred monštancie vyšľahol lúč čistého, oslepujúceho svetla. Nebolo to obyčajné svetlo. Bolo jasnejšie ako poludňajšie slnko a preťalo tmavý les s ohromnou silou. Žiara zaliala celé údolie.

Turecké kone začali divoko erdžať a stavať sa na zadné. Vojaci, zasiahnutí náhlou slepotou a nadpozemskou silou, v panike padali zo sediel. V ich očiach to nebol záblesk zo zlatej nádoby, ale hnev samotného neba. Prestrašení na smrť, s krikom o pomoc, sa otočili a bezhlavo utekali späť odkiaľ prišli.

Svetlo pomaly zhaslo a v lese nastalo hlboké ticho. Ľudia sa pomaly vrátili do svojich domovov. Vedeli, že dedina Vysoká bola zachránená. A na mieste tej skaly, kde sa stal tento zázrak, ľudia ešte dlhé storočia šepkali modlitby vďaky.

English translation: Legend “The Miracle in Vysoká”

Somewhere in the world there is the continent of Europe. Somewhere in that Europe there was a small country known today as Slovakia. In that Slovakia, near Banská Štiavnica, there was a small mountain village called Vysoká.

One day, while the villagers were doing their work, the pounding of horses’ hooves and the shouting of Ottoman riders sounded in a nearby valley. Immediately after that, the alarm bell began to ring and someone shouted, “The Turks are coming!” The villagers knew they had no chance to defend themselves. And so everyone, even the old men, women, and children, ran in panic up the steep slope. They hoped that they would find safety in the dense oak forests.

The local priest, Father Matej, quickly took from the altar the most precious thing the village had: a golden monstrance with the Blessed Sacrament. He carefully pressed it to his chest and ran after the others.

But the Turks were on horseback, and the first riders with drawn sabers reached the edge of the forest faster than the villagers. The escape was over. The attackers’ shouting grew louder, and it seemed that the village’s fate was sealed.

At that moment Father Matej climbed onto a raised rock. He lifted the golden monstrance high above his head, turned his face toward the approaching army, and began to pray aloud.

Suddenly, from the small white host in the middle of the monstrance, a beam of pure, blinding light burst forth. It was no ordinary light. It was brighter than the sun at noon and cut through the dark forest with tremendous force. The radiance flooded the entire valley.

The Turkish horses began to neigh wildly and rear up on their hind legs. The soldiers, struck by sudden blindness and a supernatural force, fell from their saddles in panic. In their eyes, it was not a flash from a golden vessel, but the anger of heaven itself. Terrified to death, crying for help, they turned around and fled headlong back the way they had come.

The light slowly faded, and deep silence settled in the forest. The people slowly returned to their homes. They knew that the village of Vysoká had been saved. And at the place of the rock where this miracle happened, people whispered prayers of gratitude for many long centuries afterward.

Timestamps

00:34 Introduction to the episode

02:16 About the Battle of Mohács

08:31 Fun fact

13:43 Slovak lesson

17:05 Legend of Vysoka in Slovak

20:24 Legend in English

23:49 Final thoughts

If you have any questions, send it to my email [email protected]. Check my  Instagram https://www.instagram.com/bozenasslovak/ where I am posting the pictures of what I am talking about on my podcast. Also, check my website  https://www.bozenasslovak.com

© All copywrites reserved to Bozena Ondova Hilko LLC

Today's episode is about the Slovak inventor Jozef Murgaš. In the Slovak lesson, you are going to learn about the Slovak conjunction či. You will also learn how to ask “Would you be able to help me?" in Slovak.

Episode notes

In today's episode, I’m talking about the Slovak inventor Jozef Murgaš. In the Slovak lesson, you are going to learn about the Slovak conjunction či. You will also learn how to ask “Would you be able to help me?" in Slovak.

Slovak lesson

1.    Neviem, či príde. (I don't know whether he will come.)

2.    Opýtaj sa ho, či má čas. (Ask him whether he has time.)

3.    Nie som si istý, či je to pravda. (I am not sure whether it is true.)

4.    Viete, či tu bol môj brat? (Do you know whether my brother was here?)

5.    Viete, či majú otvorené? (Do you know if they are open?)

6.    Viete, či je niekto doma? (Do you know if anyone is home?)

7.    Chceš kávu, či čaj? (Do you want coffee or tea?)

8.    Byť, či nebyť? (To be, or not to be?)

9.    Neviem, či mám ísť do kina, či ostať doma. (I don't know whether I should go to the cinema or stay at home.)

10. Či by ste mi mohli pomôcť? (Would you be able to help me?)

Jozef Murgaš

Jozef Murgaš bol slovenský kňaz, vynálezca, zberateľ, umelec a komunitný vodca, ktorého život spojil vieru, vedu a službu. Narodil sa na Slovensku v Tajove v roku 1864.  Pre svoju ranú prácu v oblasti bezdrôtovej komunikácie bol známy ako „rozhlasový kňaz“. Po presťahovaní sa do Wilkes-Barre v Pensylvánii, USA vybudoval laboratórium, získal niekoľko amerických patentov a v roku 1905 úspešne vyslal rádiovú správu medzi Wilkes-Barre a Scrantonom. Murgaš tiež podporoval slovenských prisťahovalcov, pomáhal budovať komunitné inštitúcie, písal pre slovenské noviny a zohral úlohu v slovenskom hnutí v Amerike. Jeho príbeh nám pripomína, že zvedavosť, kreativita a služba môžu zanechať trvalý signál naprieč generáciami.

TRANSLATION

Jozef Murgaš was a Slovak priest, inventor, collector, artist, and community leader whose life combined faith, science, and service. He was born in Tajov, Slovakia, in 1864. He was known as the “radio priest” for his early work in wireless communications. After moving to Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, USA, he built a laboratory, received several U.S. patents, and successfully transmitted a radio message between Wilkes-Barre and Scranton in 1905. Murgaš also supported Slovak immigrants, helped build community institutions, wrote for Slovak newspapers, and played a role in the Slovak movement in America. His story reminds us that curiosity, creativity, and service can leave a lasting mark across generations.

Timestamps

00:36 Introduction to the episode

02:14 About Jozef Murgaš

03:09 Fun fact 1

11:50 Fun fact 2

12:29 Slovak lesson

15:35 Sentences

19:44 Summary about Jozef Murgaš in Slovak

20:57 Translation of the summary

22:03 Final thoughts

If you have any questions, send it to my email [email protected]. Check my  Instagram https://www.instagram.com/bozenasslovak/ where I am posting the pictures of what I am talking about on my podcast. Also, check my website  https://www.bozenasslovak.com

© All copywrites reserved to Bozena Ondova Hilko LLC